3 Myths About Aging In Place

As the aging population of America grows, so does number of people who wish to age in place in the comfort of their own home. Active, healthy seniors believe that is a solution for older adults. The realities of aging in place, which is the overwhelming desire of most people over 65 these days, means that extra help is often required. With so many myths surrounding the idea of in-home care, it’s important to be aware of what is actually going on in the world of professional caregiving. To do so, let’s debunk three common myths.

Myth: Caregivers don’t really care about their patients.
Any professional nurse, therapist, or aide providing in-home care will base their treatment on a patient’s individual needs. These trained caregivers will establish a relationship in order to make their patients feel at ease. To understand a senior’s inhibitions or concerns about receiving care requires a conversation, and that’s what these caregivers know to do. Making the experience as easy as possible for the senior is mutually beneficial. A reputable agency will analyze the needs of a patient before ever placing someone in the patient’s home, and ensure that the caregiver themselves are prepared to meet the patient’s needs.

Myth: A hired professional is only for the very sick.
It’s true that many seniors who are extremely ill, or recovering from a serious injury or operation, will seek the assistance of an in-home caregiver. However, the care provided is not exclusive to recovery or seriously ill patients; it can meet a wide array of needs. Nonmedical care consists of assistance with daily living, from eating to bathing, housework, shopping, and driving. Some seniors just need that a helping hand. This non-medical assistance is a great option for an older person simply in need of some help around the house or companionship.

Myth: At-home caregiver services are inferior.
The skill of a professional caregiver will be of the same caliber as caregivers in accredited institutions. Staff of reputable agencies receive extensive training before practicing in the field. With planning, advanced medical treatments such as intravenous therapy or ventilator care can be provided in the home, and on a 24/7 basis, if required.

It is entirely possible for seniors to age in place, happily, comfortably, and in good health. The addition of a professional caregiver in the home can extend the years that a senior can actually do so. Finding a reputable caregiver service and making a simple phone call with a few questions can put family concerns to rest. Most of the time, a senior will have found themselves a new friend in their caregiver.